Abstract
Prior to birth, families impose gender stereotypes on young children based upon societal expectations. What happens when the child does not conform to the gender stereotypes? Often, these children are not accepted by society and receive messages by peers and adults to conform to the norm, which can lead to depression, anxiety, and gender dysphoria. Understanding the lived experiences of families with gender fluid children/adolescents and how to provide support is important. In particular, understanding how gender fluid children/adolescents have different social-emotional and medical needs than children/adolescents who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other sexual orientation. For families, navigating the journey of raising a gender fluid child/adolescent can be difficult and includes questions, fears, struggles, and celebrations. The journey begins when a child discloses they identify as transgender/non-binary. Sometimes families are concerned this is a phase or part of a current trend. It is important for families to understand if the child is consistent, insistent, and persistent with the identity, then it is not a phase or part of a current trend. Every family has their own journey and their own story, but there are common threads woven throughout many of the journeys. Obtaining gender-affirming care is a necessity.
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
Public Health Policies and Practices
KEYWORDS
Gender fluid children, Gender fluid adolescents, Transgender, Non-Binary
Digital Media
This presenter hasn’t added media.
Request media and follow this presentation.
